From Bars To Interviews By Rick Gilbride

From Bars to Interviews: A Felon's Guide to Getting Hired.

BY: Rick Gilbride

The direction to a destiny with redemption is often paved with obstacles, and for individuals with a criminal record, finding employment can be a daunting task. The stigma of a felony conviction can be a significant barrier to securing any career, leading to feelings of frustration, hopelessness, and desperation. However, it's not impossible to turn your life around and start anew. With the right mindset, skills, and strategies, it's possible to overcome the challenges of re-entry and find meaningful employment. In this guide, we'll share practical advice, real-life stories, and expert insights to help individuals with a felony record navigate the complex and often intimidating job market. From rebuilding your confidence and creating a strong personal brand to acing interviews and finding felon-friendly employers, we'll provide a comprehensive roadmap to help you overcome the odds and land a job that can help you rebuild your life.

1. Introduction: My expedition from incarceration hell to employment bliss

I still remember the day I walked through that Detention two-six nominal steel doors out into the compound barb-wire chain-link gates, feeling a mix of emotions: relief, anxiety, and uncertainty. The outside climate has change so much since I'd been incarcerated , and having zero ideology of being a convicted felon.  Where I was going? How or what to do to fit back into society? When would I be accepted by the general public, employers, employees, colleagues, and/or anyone? Why would they even be interested in a recently released felon? (especially after the second or third).. The thoughts of finding a secure job, a career path, reconstructing and/or building a new life, and leaving my past mistakes behind seemed Impossible. But I was motivated, ambitious, determined to turn my life around. I had to prove to first myself, and to others, that I was more than a criminal that's ready to go back on the spiral resulting from drug sales, grand theft, full blown addiction; I’m ready to rib the liquor store, all while allowing society to bully you near into submission and refuse to take the blame for their own actions. I spent countless hours reflecting on my mistakes, identifying my strengths, and mapping out a plan to rebuild my life. Applying for college, taking assessment, reading careers that I could even do with law.  And it wasn't easy. Although life isn’t easy. There are always setbacks, rejections, and moments of self-doubt. But for a felon persevering, and eventually, landing a job that gave me a sense of purpose and belonging. During Covid-19 I secured that employment and career; until my father passed away on 9/11/2020, one of my closest friends about a month later, neighborhood elders I grew up with and mentors with Covid1-19 like symptoms, and my grandmother in March of 2023. Along with my maternal grandmother's health deteriorating, my biological sister's annual income wasn’t enough, with our grandmother's lower social security then her spouse, our house was foreclosed. I felt like I failed them!!! Falling into deep depression only thing I could feel was clinging on to my creativity, my journals, and whatever two-bit job can be gone tomorrow cause I don’t care anymore, I worked extremely hard to get were I was and It was stolen, taken, basically as if being outside those incarnation Trump walls and attacked by heinous predators, criminals incarnation for 25 to Life.  In this blog post, I want to share my journey, My message, the essence, and elements with you, in the hopes that it will inspire and guide others who are facing similar challenges. I'll share the strategies, techniques, and mindset truths that shifted, transforming myself and others. This helped me overcome these obstacles in the past and find employment despite my criminal record, and shall assist me currently as well as future planning.

 “Withal once you hit the gravel, pavement, regardless of how hard you slam, or dig yourself into a hole. It’s How many times you plan to stand back up.” ~ Deputy J. Herdenez ( Mentor, Homeless Advocate, Sheriff ).

“One thing that’s known: Avoid measuring yourself by others' expectations or allow it to define a worth of anything.” ~ Chief Justice Sonia Sotomayor

"The great thing in the world is not so much where we stand, as in what direction we are moving." ~ Chief Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes

1. Less time you apply for unemployment the greater chance you have of being hired by an employer. It shows merit whether you're laid-off or quit.

2. Provide a two week notice to your employer, or try to change your schedule if and when you get hired for a job in your career path, higher wages, or/and a secondary employment. Allowing your first employer to notice that you may be getting a secondary job that may intertwine with the schedule, allows them to know that your willingness to work it out means that you're not just leaving for higher wages.

3. Regardless of the set-back, depression, agony, we will call you. Prohibit yourself from committing any major criminal activity if any. ( Doest look appealing when a pair of dress pants and a solid tee shirt cost only $35; “Godliness is next to cleanliness) Avoid applying for social security disability, whether you have physical injuries, or emotional distraught that cause you a mental illness as I do myself. It’s never worth the wait and the outcome, $500 a month isn’t $350 a week or $9-10 hourly wage. Even a busboy, barback, waiter/waitress is paid higher wages than a SSD check with full welfare benefits.

4.  On your application where it states Do you have a criminal record write in the blank space, “ Will discuss during an interview.” This way it's disclosed that only the hiring manager, store manager, and/or general manager, will view it. It’s legal, it never says you have to place that information on any application. It states that you can’t lie on your applications. That isn’t lying experts themselves have proven that this method works 68% of time. ( An interview is a foot in the door, you're halfway to three quarters of the way hired; especially if they call you for that one on one interview.)

5. Relax, take deep breaths, get there 30 minutes to 15 minutes early unless stated by the company manager Sunday-Best, wear that new dress pants and solid tee-shirt or/ and solid collared shirt on top. Transit on public vehicles and a little walking distance it’s always good to have an undershirt. Plus what it matters if you had to utilize your five finger discount card, just to provide yourself and the clothing store a new paying customer. 

2. The obstacles felons face in finding employment

 Employment for felons is often paved with obstacles, and it's essential to acknowledge these hurdles before embarking on the journey. One of the most significant barriers is being associated with a criminal record, criminal organization. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a felony conviction, fearing that they may bring a history of bad behavior into the workplace. This bias can be tough to overcome, especially when it comes to jobs that require a high level of trust or involve working with vulnerable populations.

Another significant challenge is the lack of job readiness. Incarceration can be a disorienting experience, and many felons may struggle to adapt to the demands of the modern day workforce. They may need to learn new skills, update their education, or acquire certifications to remain competitive in the job market. Furthermore, the transition from a controlled environment to the freedom of the outside world can be overwhelming, making it difficult for felons to navigate the complexities of job hunting.

Additionally, many felons face logistical challenges, such as limited access to resources, transportation, welfare, healthcare, or/and childcare. They may also struggle with the emotional and psychological scars of their past, which can affect their confidence and self-esteem. These obstacles can make it difficult for felons to present themselves in a positive light, network effectively, and build the relationships necessary to secure employment.

Despite these challenges, it's essential to remember that felons are not defined by their past mistakes.( Although they are in many aspects) With the right support, guidance, and resources, they can overcome these obstacles and become valuable contributors to the workforce.

Addiction everything whether society accepts it or not; I’m addicted to living. ~ Roderick A. Williams 

Get engage with communities such as, rehabs, education programs, government sectors, church groups, homeless shelters, etc..( I know it doesn't look good to all the boys in hood or that dime piece walking down the avenue when your communicated with authority of law; the mafia has penalties rank lowers or have pay extra dues, or/and gang member initial similar to WWE smackdown) But in reality whats that matter! You could work at a government building and development, a code enforcer, a janitor, recreational parks, paralegal, FEMA, Border control, TSA, etc... State and federal unions pension , government insurance and of course that low APR financial interest rating, are provided. Those are real verily dues to pay into.

“BUILD BACK A BETTER ACT,” sign by President Joe biden is not just our infrastructure, it's also about our children, families, law enforcement treating each other in a NON-Violent, Hospitality, Integrity, Generosity  Honor, Courtesy, Idealism, Hope!!! ( H.I.G.H. , C.I.H.) (Far from A CIH SAFETY Hygiene certification; although it provides a job/career)] President Barack Obama prison reform isn’t some Living in water religions radicals daily bread, “Quenches your Thirst,” Spirit Slogans from 1990’s-2000’s; War on Drugs, Nixon change of Gulf War to Homefront just to reshape the outside environment into a Russian German holocaust, nazi concentration camp, because of illicit narcotics addicts or alcoholics (NA / AA, can’t live without a meeting, military grandfather in President Donald Trump Version of GODFATHER, 8th Secretary of Defense (SOD) Lloyd Austin Version of Founder Harry Truman Versus General McCarthy)

It's about building our rapport, creating allies with another, civilians, even criminals that have common decency to be employed. ( Some are just as vulnerable and need assistance and catering to.) Understanding that sometimes both sides are outline or/and wrong, doing something now before generation don't have the Home of the Brave, Land of the Free. ( Land Of Holiness, Land of Opportunities, Land of Promise, Land of Everything… H.O.P.E.)  Because a business loan from foreign or corporation banks allowed the new owner to run to international tariff or different business laws to global leaders by taking a loan out on future profits just to keep their business at float. Being blinded and bind to contracts that are 20 years or more our children’s futures are in the greater economic crisis than the Great Depression, small & Big Recession, and Global market fall of 2016-2017 from inflation) Working with government officials and/or corporations for even .75 to about store brand 20 oz soda less aides a United States Stance America can afford during the Care Act that both presidents 45 and 46 signed in 2020-21.

Before we get it Yo Samite Sam automatic you're fired 47th presidency!!! Vice president Kamala Harris reform the 2nd amendment, and felons should look at firearms as the eternal hell, eternal death  in Prada instead of blessing in disguise voting rights that allow all parties to have the opportunity and promise to. Jesus  once walked with Jewish's, Christians, Catholics, Muslims, amongst other religions here in our home land to prosper and other nations. The 1st amendment is power over any voting right and when you defend that even during lockdown  with just an ASVAB score, Felony recorded, Workforce, Labor, Household languages, translation, religion freedom, Liberty Justice for all, in spirit soul body mind and free will. Instead of television rating across the globe you shouldn’t go through deceit by law. ( Entertainment is a career, jobs are created and leaders do need to address the nation and other nations as well). This isn't an episode of cops or live pd. 

“War Heroes are not criminals.” ~President Wilfred Wilcox 

3. How to prepare for life after release

The countdown to freedom has begun, and it's essential to make the most of your time behind bars to prepare for life after release. This is not a waiting game; it's a strategic planning phase. You're not just serving time, you're serving yourself a chance to redeem, rebuild, and restart. While the walls of incarceration may seem to close in, don't let your mind be confined. Use this time to reflect, reassess, and reboot. Take advantage of the resources available to you, such as education and job training programs, counseling, and spiritual guidance. Identify your strengths, weaknesses, and passions, and start to envision a life beyond the prison gates. Develop a growth mindset, and focus on personal growth, self-improvement, and skill-building. The more you prepare, the more equipped you'll be to tackle the challenges of re-entry and increase your chances of landing a job that will help you stay on the right track.

4. Building a strong foundation: Education and skills training

As you transition from behind bars to the outside world, it's essential to recognize that the job market has likely changed significantly since your incarceration. Employers now expect a certain level of education, skills, and training, making it crucial to build a strong foundation for your re-entry into the workforce. While it may seem daunting, acquiring new skills and education can be a powerful way to overcome the stigma of a felony conviction.

Take advantage of the resources available to you, such as vocational training programs, GED preparation, and college courses offered within the correctional facility. These programs can help you develop valuable skills in areas like technology, culinary arts, or construction, making you a more competitive candidate upon release.

Additionally, consider online courses, certification programs, or apprenticeships that can be completed upon release. Not only will this demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and rehabilitation, but it will also provide a tangible asset to showcase to potential employers. By investing in your education and skills training, you'll be better equipped to navigate the challenges of finding employment with a felony conviction and increase your chances of landing a job that can help you rebuild your life.

5. Creating a standout resume and cover letter

Creating a standout resume and cover letter is a crucial step in your journey to getting hired. As a felon, you may face additional challenges in showcasing your skills and experience to potential employers. However, with a well-crafted resume and cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview. Utilize Linkedin, Indeed, Monster, Resume.com, Resumecoach, etc.

Your resume should be a concise and compelling summary of your skills, education, work experience, included your address, phone number & a valid email to contact at the top of resume, along with at least three references before you finish. Maybe a few hobbies & interests that correspond with job/career your applying for. Be honest about your past, but also focus on highlighting your strengths, goals, core values, and achievements. Consider including any relevant coursework, training programs, or certifications you've completed while incarcerated, or/and after/before your incarcerations'. Also, don't be afraid to highlight any soft skills you've developed, such as communication, teamwork, or problem-solving skills.

Your cover letter should complement your resume and provide a brief introduction to who you are? Why would you be a tremendous fit for the position you're acquiring? What interest do you have and goal to accomplish in the company? How would both you and the company benefit from hiring you as an employee? (including some of your professional characteristics.) Why should they consider you over others applying for the position? (Elaborate). Use this opportunity to tell your story, explain how you've grown and learned from your experiences, and express your enthusiasm for the position. Be sincere, concise, and professional in your writing, and make sure to proofread carefully to avoid any errors.

Remember, the goal of your resume and cover letter is to showcase your potential and persuade the employer to give you a chance. By highlighting your strengths, being honest about your past, and demonstrating your enthusiasm for the job, you can increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview.

6. Crafting a compelling narrative: How to address your past

The million-dollar question: how do you tackle the elephant in the room - your criminal record? It's a daunting task, but one that requires careful consideration and strategic storytelling. Crafting a compelling narrative around your past is crucial in helping potential employers see beyond your felony and focus on the skills, determination, and resilience you bring to the table. ( Generation gaps, Neighborhoods, Family shadows, Peer-pressure, Upbringing, Hardship,etc.) It's not about sugarcoating or denying your mistakes, but rather about showcasing your growth, redemption, and commitment to turning your situation and life around. Think of it as a redemption story - one that highlights the lessons you've learned, the obstacles you've overcome, and the positive changes you've made in your life, along with others. By doing so, you'll be able to address the inevitable questions about your past in a way that inspires confidence and trust, rather than doubt and concern. Remember, your narrative is a powerful tool in shaping the way others perceive you, so wield it wisely.

7. Dressing for success: Making a good impression

As a felon re-entering the workforce, you're likely to face a multitude of challenges, but one crucial aspect of acing an interview is often overlooked: dressing for success. While it may seem trivial, the way you present yourself can make a significant difference in how potential employers perceive you. When you walk into an interview, you're not just selling your skills and experience, but also your professionalism and attitude.

Remember, the goal is to make a good impression, not to make a statement. Ditch the flashy jewelry, ripped jeans, and oversized logos. Instead, opt for clean, ironed clothes that fit well and are appropriate for the industry you're applying to. (For instance, Construction worker t-shirt and work style khakis jeans; dickies, wrangle, for sales a collared shirt long sleeve to cover any tattoos, and long dress style pants; dickies, george, etc.) A simple, yet polished outfit can convey a sense of responsibility and maturity, which are essential qualities for any employer.

For men, a classic two-piece suit, a crisp white shirt, and a tie can be a safe bet. For women, a blouse and a pair of tailored pants or a skirt can create a professional, put-together look. Pay attention to grooming as well a neat haircut, trimmed nails, and a clean shave can go a long way in making a positive impression.

By dressing professionally, you're showing the employer that you're taking the interview seriously, and that you're willing to make an effort to present yourself in the best possible light. It's a small but significant step in building trust and confidence with your potential employer, and it can give you a much-needed edge in the competitive job market.

8. Mastering the art of the interview: Tips and tricks

Mastering the art of the interview is a crucial step in the journey to reintegration. As a felon, you may face unique challenges in this arena, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome them. Remember, the goal of an interview is not to simply showcase your skills and experience, but to tell a story a story of redemption, growth, and determination.

First and foremost, preparation is key. Research the company, practice your responses to common interview questions, and prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. Dress professionally, arrive early, and make a strong first impression. But, as a felon, you may need to take it a step further. Be prepared to address the elephant in the room your criminal record. Be honest, but also be prepared to highlight what you've learned from your experiences and how you've grown as a result.

It's also essential to focus on the skills you've developed during your incarceration, such as time management, conflict resolution, and teamwork. These skills are highly valued in the workforce, and by highlighting them, you can demonstrate your ability to contribute to a team. Additionally, be prepared to talk about your re-entry plans, including any support systems you have in place, such as counseling or mentorship programs. This will show the interviewer that you're committed to your rehabilitation and dedicated to making a positive impact.

Finally, confidence is key. Believe in yourself, your abilities, and your worth. Remember, you're not defined by your past mistakes, but by your ability to learn from them and move forward. By mastering the art of the interview, you can overcome the stigma of a criminal record and land a job that will help you build a brighter future.

9. Networking and building connections

Networking and building connections - the art of making friends in the right places. As a felon, you may think that your past mistakes will forever hold you back from forming meaningful connections in the professional world. But, think again. The truth is, people are more willing to give second chances than you might think, and it's often the relationships you build that can open doors to new opportunities.

Attend industry events, job fairs, and seminars. These are perfect platforms to meet people who are already working in your desired field. Be honest about your past, but also be prepared to talk about what you've learned from your experiences and how you've grown as a person. You'll be surprised at how many people are willing to lend a helping hand or offer valuable advice.

Volunteer for causes you're passionate about. Not only does this demonstrate your commitment to making a positive change, but it also gives you the chance to meet like-minded individuals who may be able to connect you with potential employers. And, who knows, you might just find a mentor who can guide you through the process.

Most importantly, don't be afraid to reach out to people directly. Send emails or LinkedIn messages to people in your desired field, asking for advice or to chat over coffee. You'll be surprised at how many people are willing to chat with you, and these connections can lead to job opportunities you never thought possible.

Remember, it's not about who you know, but who knows you. By building a network of connections, you'll increase your chances of getting hired and starting a new chapter in your life.

10. Overcoming common objections and concerns

As you navigate the job market, you'll inevitably encounter employers who harbor concerns about your criminal past. It's essential to anticipate and address these objections head-on, rather than letting them become insurmountable barriers to your employment.

One of the most common concerns is the risk of reoffending. Be prepared to discuss the steps you've taken to rehabilitate and reform, such as counseling, education, or job training programs you've completed while incarcerated. Highlight your commitment to personal growth and your desire to make a positive impact in your community.

Another concern is the potential for liability or damage to the company's reputation. Be honest and transparent about your past, but also emphasize your skills, qualifications, and the value you can bring to the organization. Show that you're a changed person, eager to contribute to a team and make a fresh start.

Some employers may worry about the potential for absenteeism or unreliability due to parole or probation requirements. Prepare a clear explanation of your schedule and any obligations you may have, and offer solutions for how you can manage these responsibilities while still meeting your job obligations.

By addressing these concerns directly and confidently, you can demonstrate your maturity, accountability, and determination to succeed. Remember, your goal is to show that you're a capable, dedicated, and rehabilitated individual who deserves a chance to rebuild your life and contribute to society.

11. Navigating background checks and disclosure

The dreaded background check. It's a hurdle that can strike fear into the hearts of even the most confident job seekers, especially those with a criminal record. But, it's not impossible to navigate. In fact, with the right approach, you can turn this potential obstacle into an opportunity to showcase your growth and rehabilitation.

The key is to be proactive and upfront about your past. Don't wait for the background check to reveal your criminal history; instead, address it head-on in your cover letter or initial interview. This demonstrates your honesty and willingness to be transparent, traits that are highly valued by employers.

When disclosing your criminal record, be prepared to talk about what you've learned from your experiences, how you've grown as a person, and the steps you've taken to ensure you're not a risk to the company. Highlight any rehabilitation programs, counseling, or education you've pursued while incarcerated, and be ready to provide references from parole officers, counselors, or other professionals who can vouch for your progress.

Remember, it's not about hiding your past, but about showing how you've overcome it. By addressing the elephant in the room, you can build trust with potential employers and increase your chances of landing a job. And, who knows, your unique perspective and experiences may even become a valuable asset to your future employer.

12. Finding felon-friendly employers and job opportunities

As you navigate the job market, it's essential to focus on finding employers and job opportunities that are open to hiring individuals with a criminal record. These felon-friendly employers understand that everyone deserves a second chance and are willing to look beyond your past mistakes.

One way to identify these employers is to look for companies that have explicitly stated their commitment to hiring ex-offenders. Many organizations, such as the National Institute of Corrections and the U.S. Department of Labor, offer resources and training programs to help felons find employment. You can also search for job openings on websites that cater specifically to ex-offenders, such as the National H.I.R.E. Network or the Ex-Offender Reentry Program.

Another approach is to target industries that are more likely to hire individuals with a criminal record. For example, the construction and manufacturing industries often have a higher demand for labor and may be more open to hiring felons. Additionally, some companies, such as those in the food service or hospitality industries, may have a more relaxed stance on hiring ex-offenders due to their high turnover rates.

Lastly, don't underestimate the power of networking. Attend job fairs, industry events, and support groups specifically designed for ex-offenders. These can be great opportunities to meet people who have been in your shoes and can offer valuable advice and connections. By focusing on finding felon-friendly employers and job opportunities, you can increase your chances of landing a job and starting a new chapter in your life.

13. Staying positive and persistent in the face of rejection

Rejection. It's a harsh reality that many of us, especially those with a felony record, will face on the path to employment. It's easy to get discouraged, to feel like the system is stacked against you, and to wonder if you'll ever find a job that will give you a second chance. But it's precisely in these moments of darkness that you must dig deep and find the resilience to keep moving forward.

Staying positive and persistent in the face of rejection is not just a mindset, it's a strategy. It means that every "no" you receive is an opportunity to learn and improve, to refine your approach and come back stronger. It means that you don't let one, two, or ten rejections define your worth as a person or a job candidate. It means that you keep pushing, keep applying, and keep believing in yourself, even when it feels like no one else does.

Remember, every successful person has a story of rejection and perseverance. Every entrepreneur, every artist, every athlete has faced setbacks and doubters along the way. But they didn't let those obstacles hold them back. They kept pushing, kept grinding, and eventually, they broke through.

You can do the same. You can take the lessons you've learned from your past, and use them to fuel your future. You can prove to yourself and others that you're more than your felony record. You can rise above the noise, and create a new narrative, one of redemption, hope, and triumph. So don't give up. Stay positive, stay persistent, and keep pushing forward. Your second chance is waiting for you.

14. Conclusion: Turning your life around and getting hired

As you close the final chapter of this guide, remember that your past doesn't define your future. The journey from bars to interviews is not an easy one, but it's a testament to your strength, resilience, and determination to turn your life around. You've taken the first step by acknowledging the need for change and seeking guidance to get back on track.

Getting hired as a felon requires more than just a polished resume or a well-rehearsed interview pitch. It demands a fundamental shift in your mindset, a willingness to learn from your mistakes, and a commitment to personal growth. It's about proving to yourself, and others, that you're capable of redemption and deserving of a second chance.

As you embark on this new path, remember that you're not alone. There are countless individuals who have walked in your shoes and have emerged victorious on the other side. Draw inspiration from their stories, and use them as a reminder that you too can overcome any obstacle.

In the end, it's not about the mistakes you've made, but about the lessons you've learned from them. It's not about the doors that have been closed, but about the new ones that have been opened. And it's not about the past, but about the future you're building, one interview at a time.

As we conclude this journey of transformation, we hope that the words on these pages have ignited a spark of hope within you. From the darkness of incarceration to the bright lights of a new career, it's never too late to turn your life around. With the right mindset, skills, and strategies, you too can overcome the obstacles of your past and land a job that brings you purpose and fulfillment. Remember, your mistakes do not define you - it's how you rise from the ashes that matters. Take the first step today, and never give up on your pursuit of a second chance. God bless you on your journey to new heights and paths that brings you Grace, Hope, Prosperity. Happiness, Dignity, Serenity....